Christian Horner, team principal of Red Bull Racing, remains optimistic about Max Verstappen‘s prospects of overcoming McLaren’s Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris in the battle for the 2025 Drivers’ Championship. Following the recent Canadian Grand Prix, where Verstappen dropped behind the McLaren drivers, Horner emphasized his belief that Verstappen still has a strong opportunity to clinch another title this season.

In a recent interview with De Telegraaf, the 51-year-old Horner reiterated the team’s dedication to developing a car capable of supporting Verstappen’s championship aspirations, stating their commitment to continuous improvement to keep pressure on McLaren. He added:

“Do I still believe in a fifth title? Yes, even though it will be very difficult. Winning this year is still our big goal. There is only one driver who has managed to win five consecutive championships — Michael Schumacher.”

“One thing is for sure: we never give up. I have always been the type of person who thinks nothing is impossible. Otherwise, the team would not be where it is now and I would not be in this position. We need to continue to develop the car so that it is good enough for Max to work his magic. That way, we can continue to put pressure on McLaren.”

Verstappen’s recent performance narrows gap to McLaren leaders

Max Verstappen, a four-time world champion, reduced the points difference to championship leader Oscar Piastri to 43 following his second-place finish at the Canadian Grand Prix. This strong result allowed Verstappen to close in on the McLaren drivers as the 2025 season progresses. If he manages to overtake the points lead by the campaign’s end, Verstappen would match Michael Schumacher’s feat of winning five consecutive world championships, a historic achievement in Formula 1.

Ex-Red Bull driver highlights what Verstappen needs to challenge McLaren

Christian Klien, former Red Bull driver, recently weighed in on Verstappen’s chances of beating the McLaren duo in 2025. The Austrian veteran suggested that while Verstappen and Red Bull remain formidable competitors, further enhancements to their RB21 car would be essential for mounting a sustained challenge against Piastri and Norris.

Klien pointed out that Red Bull’s competitiveness was evident during the Canadian GP weekend but acknowledged the need for a performance upgrade to close the gap.

“Yeah, I think it’s effective—you should never underestimate Verstappen and Red Bull. All weekend, in qualifying and the race, they were beating McLaren, which is their main competitor.

“…If they can challenge McLaren in the long run for the championship, I think they would need an upgrade that brings them closer—within striking distance, let’s say, to McLaren. But yeah, for now and then, he’s good enough to be on the podium and challenge them.”

Current standings and Verstappen’s position in the championship race

While Verstappen has tended to downplay his chances of winning the drivers’ title this season, his results indicate he remains a serious contender. He is the only non-McLaren driver to have claimed multiple race wins in 2025 so far. After finishing fourth in Montreal, Piastri holds the championship lead with 198 points.

Lando Norris, despite falling behind following a crash during the Canadian Grand Prix, still maintains a lead over Verstappen with 176 points. Verstappen’s runner-up finish in Montreal has boosted his tally to 155 points, keeping him within reach of the duo heading into the remainder of the season.

Outlook for the 2025 Drivers’ Championship battle

The 2025 Drivers Championship promises to be fiercely contested, with Verstappen, Piastri, and Norris all vying for supremacy. Christian Horner’s confidence and the progress Red Bull continues to pursue suggest the team is fully invested in supporting Verstappen’s campaign. Matching the historic achievements of Michael Schumacher by securing five consecutive titles would cement Verstappen’s legacy among Formula 1’s all-time greats. As the season unfolds, developments on track and technical advancements will be critical in shaping the championship outcome.